Little Pig Joins the Band by David Hyde Costello

Rating: ★★★★★

Genre: Children’s lit

Medium: Paperback

Synopsis: Little Pig’s family decides to start a marching band, but Little Pig can’t seem to find an instrument that fits him.

Review: I LOVE the Little Pig series, and this book is just as amazing as the other!  The watercolor is incredible, the story is adorable, and it’s an all-around genuine book that’s full of puns.

So–the illustrations.  David Hyde Costello pointed out a few things in his illustrations that made me realize just how detailed everything is.  I mean, just flip to a random page!  Costello took the time to create a floor plan for Poppy’s house, and spent the time drawing background photos, books, and everything a house usually has, instead of opting for a more simplistic background.  That takes a lot of time and talent, and Costello clearly put the effort in to make sure his illustrations are as top as they can be.

Also, the story itself is just so wholesome.  I mean, I truly can’t say no to an impromptu marching band and protagonists coming into themselves.  This is definitely a book you all should check out and read!!

Little Pig Saves the Ship by David Hyde Costello

Rating: ★★★★★

Genre: Children’s lit

Medium: Hardcover

Synopsis: Little Pig can’t go to summer camp with his brothers, so he has to stay home.  But before one of his brothers leaves, he’s given a knot-tying book.  Maybe it’ll come in handy…

Review: Let me shout from the rooftop: I love the Little Pig books!!!  From its beautiful watercolors and fun writing to its heartwarming themes and gay characters, this book is so worth your time.  David Hyde Costello is the author and illustrator for this book, which means that the text and pictures go together just in the way he wants, evoking a picturebook that truly feels whole.

Little Pig is such a relatable character in that he’s too young to do what his big brothers are doing.  But his grandfathers make sure that he’s going to have a good time at home, regardless.  That way, he’ll also have something to show when his brothers return.  And little does he know that he’ll end up being the hero of his own story when his ship heads towards rough waters.

Which, speaking of water–the watercolors are amazing.  The work Costello does is something I couldn’t even dream of doing, it’s that good.  You can truly tell that he put so much thought and effort into this book, and in my opinion, it pays off.